The two Gio van Bronckhorst Rangers lineups as Annan cup rotation highlights strength in depth

They might not have flown out of the traps in 2022 but there is no denying the Rangers squad is in a stronger position now than it was at Christmas time.

With Nathan Patterson the only substantial departure, Gio van Bronckhorst added some versatility in James Sands before late window coups saw Amad Diallo and Aaron Ramsey loaned in until the end of the season.

And it's left Van Bronckhorst with an enviable depth of options - as he demonstrated in the Scottish Cup victory over Annan on Saturday.

He changed his entire XI for the Scottish Cup trip south with the likes of Ramsey and Mateusz Zukowski handed their first starts.

And the Ibrox boss was still able to give minutes off the bench to some stars who hadn't featured against Hibs - with youngster Alex Lowry among those looking to make an impression with a cameo.

It might be some time before Juventus loanee Ramsey is fully match fit, but with everyone available, there can be no disputing that he makes the strongest XI.

So too will Ryan Jack when he eventually returns to full fitness.

Glen Kamara may be the most notable omission from that but it's not as simple as a cut and dry 'A' and 'B' team scenario.

The Finland international could step into that starting XI without any substantial drop-off and so too could a number of others - including Leon Balogun, Steven Davis and Scott Arfield.

Jon McLaughlin is also a more than capable understudy to McGregor. Having penned a long-term deal recently, he may be the Ibrox No.1 sooner rather than later.

But even after the squad is split into two full XIs, there are players to spare.

Lowry is knocking on the door having made the most of his senior opportunities while Leon King is soon expected to emerge as a major defensive